US20030159415A1 - Air filter with expandable filter media - Google Patents

Air filter with expandable filter media Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20030159415A1
US20030159415A1 US10/090,058 US9005802A US2003159415A1 US 20030159415 A1 US20030159415 A1 US 20030159415A1 US 9005802 A US9005802 A US 9005802A US 2003159415 A1 US2003159415 A1 US 2003159415A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
pleats
frame
filter assembly
filter
pair
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
US10/090,058
Other versions
US6723150B2 (en
Inventor
Nathan Parker
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Trane International Inc
Original Assignee
American Standard International Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by American Standard International Inc filed Critical American Standard International Inc
Priority to US10/090,058 priority Critical patent/US6723150B2/en
Assigned to AMERICAN STANDARD INTERNATIONAL INC. reassignment AMERICAN STANDARD INTERNATIONAL INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: PARKER, NATHAN P.
Publication of US20030159415A1 publication Critical patent/US20030159415A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US6723150B2 publication Critical patent/US6723150B2/en
Assigned to TRANE INTERNATIONAL INC. reassignment TRANE INTERNATIONAL INC. CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: AMERICAN STANDARD INTERNATIONAL INC.
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01DSEPARATION
    • B01D46/00Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
    • B01D46/52Particle separators, e.g. dust precipitators, using filters embodying folded corrugated or wound sheet material
    • B01D46/521Particle separators, e.g. dust precipitators, using filters embodying folded corrugated or wound sheet material using folded, pleated material
    • B01D46/523Particle separators, e.g. dust precipitators, using filters embodying folded corrugated or wound sheet material using folded, pleated material with means for maintaining spacing between the pleats or folds
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01DSEPARATION
    • B01D46/00Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
    • B01D46/0002Casings; Housings; Frame constructions
    • B01D46/0005Mounting of filtering elements within casings, housings or frames
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01DSEPARATION
    • B01D46/00Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
    • B01D46/0002Casings; Housings; Frame constructions
    • B01D46/0005Mounting of filtering elements within casings, housings or frames
    • B01D46/0006Filter elements or cartridges installed in a drawer-like manner
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01DSEPARATION
    • B01D46/00Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
    • B01D46/0002Casings; Housings; Frame constructions
    • B01D46/001Means for connecting filter housings to supports
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01DSEPARATION
    • B01D46/00Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
    • B01D46/0002Casings; Housings; Frame constructions
    • B01D46/0016Folded frame or housing constructions
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01DSEPARATION
    • B01D46/00Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours
    • B01D46/88Replacing filter elements
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10STECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S55/00Gas separation
    • Y10S55/31Filter frame

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems (HVAC systems), and more specifically to a filter core having an expandable air filter media.
  • HVAC systems heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems
  • HVAC equipment such as furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps and air handlers, usually include some type of air filter for removing dust and other particles from the air.
  • a blower typically forces the air through the filter before the air is conveyed to a room or other area of a building served by the HVAC equipment.
  • One type of filter known as a filter core, comprises an outer frame containing an air permeable material or filter media.
  • the core then is removably inserted in a filter casing that holds the filter core in the main air passage of the HVAC equipment or associated ductwork. Restricted porosity of the filter media allows the filter to catch air contaminants as air passes through the filter. As the filter becomes dirty, the filter core and/or filter media is periodically cleaned or replaced.
  • FIG. 1 One example of a filter casing for holding filter cores is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,630,008.
  • the casing includes hinged side panels that provide access for replacing the filter cores.
  • the filter media can be provided with a large surface area.
  • this may lead to an oversized filter frame, which can be expensive and can be difficult to install in areas of limited space. So, the filter media is often pleated or corrugated to increase its surface area without increasing the overall size of the filter frame.
  • Typical examples of filters with a corrugated filter media are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,982,639; 2,393,419; 2,739,667 and 3,246,456.
  • the '639 patent discloses a filter media that is fed from one storage roller onto another as a series of staggered rollers guides a dust-collecting portion of the media in a zigzag pattern across the main air passage. It appears that each roller alone has enough capacity to store the entire filter media. This is apparently so that one roller can hold a complete roll of clean media, and later, the other roller can collect the entire roll after the media has passed across the air passage. Consequently, the filter assembly is quite bulky, as its total storage area is at least twice the volume of the filter media.
  • a common drawback of current filters is that they are usually of fixed predetermined sizes to fit specific filter frames, filter casings or air passageways. This creates a problem for filter manufacturers and dealers, as they may need to carry a large inventory of filters to match the numerous models of HVAC equipment. Such an inventory may require a significant amount storage space, as there are tendencies or advantages of making filters large to reduce the frequency at which they need to be changed and to reduce the filter's airflow resistance, as already explained.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide a corrugated filter media that can be used in various sized filter frames. Another object of the invention is to enable parts dealers to reduce their inventory of filters and to allow the dealers to supply the right filter media without having to know an exact size of a particular piece of HVAC equipment.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide a filter frame with integral living hinges that enable a relatively flat frame to fold into a more box-like shape.
  • Another object is to provide a filter media with side panels that connect to a filter frame, such that together the filter media and filter frame comprise a box-like structure.
  • Another object is to provide a filter frame with a storage chamber for storing unused pleats of a corrugated filter media.
  • Another object is to provide a filter frame that includes a pivotal saw tooth rack for supporting a corrugated filter media.
  • a further object is to provide a filter frame with a channel that helps support a side panel of a filter media.
  • a still further object is to provide a filter core that once installed in a filter casing is substantially stationary to avoid the maintenance that is often associated with moving parts.
  • Another object is to provide a filter frame with a tie rod that helps hold a pivotal saw tooth rack in its proper position.
  • Another object is to have a living hinge couple the tie rod to filter frame.
  • a filter assembly that includes a corrugated filter media, wherein some pleats of the media are disposed in a main airflow passageway, and other pleats are folded more compactly and stored further away from the main flow of air.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a filter core (according to one embodiment of the invention) being inserted into a filter casing.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the filter core shown in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3 - 3 of FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a filter frame used in the filter core of FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a filter media and a filter frame being assembled into the filter core of FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 3, but with the filter media omitted to more clearly show features of the filter frame.
  • a filter core 10 comprises a plastic frame 12 containing an air permeable filter media 14 .
  • Core 10 is adapted to be removably inserted in a filter casing 16 , which is installed inside an air duct 18 or some other piece of HVAC equipment, such as a furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, air handler, etc.
  • a filter casing 16 When placed inside casing 16 , core 10 lies across the main air passage in duct 18 .
  • media 14 filters dust and other particles from the air.
  • a cross-sectional view of core 10 shows media 14 being corrugated to create a first plurality of pleats 22 and an adjoining second plurality of pleats 24 .
  • the term, “pleat” refers to a section of sheet material having a crease, fold or bend.
  • section 26 is one pleat
  • section 28 is another pleat.
  • Pleats 22 are loosely folded to provide an open broad area of media for filtering air 20 .
  • pleats 24 are surplus and are not needed for filtering air, so pleats 24 are compactly folded and stored off to one side of frame 12 .
  • the extra pleats 24 provide the option of expanding media 14 to fill wider frames (i.e., wider as measured along dimension 30 ). This expandability feature allows a manufacturer or parts dealer to keep a relatively small assortment of filter media, and yet still be able to fill the needs of customers having a wide variety of filter frame sizes. When separated from its frame, media 14 can be tightly folded to create a rather compact item that can be readily stored or shipped.
  • frame 12 includes features that not only allow the replacement of media 14 , but also facilitate manufacturing frame 12 as a unitary plastic injection molded part.
  • Frame 12 includes a first pair of frame members 32 and 34 and a second pair of frame members 36 and 38 .
  • the four frame members lie in a generally rectangular configuration.
  • Frame members 32 and 34 include channels 40 and 42 , which are able to receive two side panels 44 and 48 of media 14 , thereby helping to hold media 14 in place.
  • side panels 44 and 48 are made of cardboard and are preferably more rigid than the air permeable portion of media 14 .
  • frame 12 includes two end plates 50 and 52 that can flip upright, as indicated by arrows 54 and 56 of FIG. 5. End plates 50 and 52 each pivot about one or a linear series of living hinges 58 that integrally join end plates 50 and 52 to frame 12 .
  • each end plate 50 and 52 includes two latches 60 with protrusions 62 that hook into holes 68 in side panels 44 and 48 .
  • Protrusions 62 extend from tabs 64 that are pivotally joined to end plates 50 and 52 by way of a living hinge 66 . As tabs 64 pivot to insert protrusions 62 into holes 68 , protrusions 62 also extend into holes 70 of catch members 72 . Thus, side panels 44 and 48 are held in place between tabs 64 and catch members 72 .
  • Frame 12 also includes one or more flip-up saw tooth racks 74 , 76 and 78 .
  • the term, “saw tooth,” is used in a broad sense to encompass any shape able to help support a corrugated media and does not necessary mean a shape resembling the teeth of a saw blade.
  • racks 74 , 76 and 78 are able to support the corrugated portion of media 14 .
  • Living hinges 80 , 82 and 84 enable the racks to pivot relative to frame 12 .
  • frame 12 is provided with tie rods 86 . Tie rods 86 have one end pivotally connected to frame 12 by way of a living hinge 88 and an opposite end 90 that hooks into an opening 92 in the saw tooth racks.
  • peaks 94 and 96 and valleys 98 and 100 of racks 74 , 76 and 78 help define a plurality of chambers 102 and a storage chamber 104 .
  • Chambers 102 and 104 help hold pleats 22 and 24 substantially stationary, i.e., media 14 does not travel across frame 12 during normal use of filter core 10 .
  • Chambers 102 are for pleats 22 and storage chamber 104 is for pleats 24 , as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6. It should be noted that actually any of chambers 102 could serve as a storage chamber for storing excess pleats 24 ; however, pleats 24 are preferably stored where they provide minimal resistance to airflow.
  • Folding media 14 and attaching side panels 44 and 48 can be carried out in any conventional manner well known to those skilled in the art. Also, the plastic injection molding of frame 12 in its configuration shown in FIG. 4 is also a process well known to those skilled in the art.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Filtering Of Dispersed Particles In Gases (AREA)
  • Air Filters, Heat-Exchange Apparatuses, And Housings Of Air-Conditioning Units (AREA)

Abstract

An air filter assembly comprises a plastic frame containing an air permeable filter media. The media is corrugated to provide a series of pleats. Some of the pleats can be folded more compactly than others, so that the media can fit in various size frames. This can reduce the inventory of filter manufacturers and dealers. The filter frame can be plastic injection molded with integral living hinges to enable the frame to fold from a relatively flat shape to a more box-like structure. The frame includes one or more flip-up saw tooth racks that help define a main series of chambers plus a storage chamber. The main series of chambers supports a portion of the media that is more loosely folded for filtering air. The storage chamber is adjacent the main air stream and holds the more compactly folded, excess pleats.

Description

    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • 1. Field of the Invention [0001]
  • The present invention generally relates to heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems (HVAC systems), and more specifically to a filter core having an expandable air filter media. [0002]
  • 2. Description of Related Art [0003]
  • HVAC equipment, such as furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps and air handlers, usually include some type of air filter for removing dust and other particles from the air. A blower typically forces the air through the filter before the air is conveyed to a room or other area of a building served by the HVAC equipment. [0004]
  • One type of filter, known as a filter core, comprises an outer frame containing an air permeable material or filter media. The core then is removably inserted in a filter casing that holds the filter core in the main air passage of the HVAC equipment or associated ductwork. Restricted porosity of the filter media allows the filter to catch air contaminants as air passes through the filter. As the filter becomes dirty, the filter core and/or filter media is periodically cleaned or replaced. [0005]
  • One example of a filter casing for holding filter cores is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,630,008. The casing includes hinged side panels that provide access for replacing the filter cores. [0006]
  • To reduce the frequency of changing or cleaning the filter or to reduce the filter's airflow resistance, the filter media can be provided with a large surface area. However, this may lead to an oversized filter frame, which can be expensive and can be difficult to install in areas of limited space. So, the filter media is often pleated or corrugated to increase its surface area without increasing the overall size of the filter frame. [0007]
  • Typical examples of filters with a corrugated filter media are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,982,639; 2,393,419; 2,739,667 and 3,246,456. The '639 patent discloses a filter media that is fed from one storage roller onto another as a series of staggered rollers guides a dust-collecting portion of the media in a zigzag pattern across the main air passage. It appears that each roller alone has enough capacity to store the entire filter media. This is apparently so that one roller can hold a complete roll of clean media, and later, the other roller can collect the entire roll after the media has passed across the air passage. Consequently, the filter assembly is quite bulky, as its total storage area is at least twice the volume of the filter media. [0008]
  • A common drawback of current filters is that they are usually of fixed predetermined sizes to fit specific filter frames, filter casings or air passageways. This creates a problem for filter manufacturers and dealers, as they may need to carry a large inventory of filters to match the numerous models of HVAC equipment. Such an inventory may require a significant amount storage space, as there are tendencies or advantages of making filters large to reduce the frequency at which they need to be changed and to reduce the filter's airflow resistance, as already explained. [0009]
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • To overcome the drawbacks of current air filters, it is an object of the invention to provide a corrugated filter media that can be used in various sized filter frames. Another object of the invention is to enable parts dealers to reduce their inventory of filters and to allow the dealers to supply the right filter media without having to know an exact size of a particular piece of HVAC equipment. [0010]
  • Another object of the invention is to provide a filter frame with integral living hinges that enable a relatively flat frame to fold into a more box-like shape. [0011]
  • Another object is to provide a filter media with side panels that connect to a filter frame, such that together the filter media and filter frame comprise a box-like structure. [0012]
  • Another object is to provide a filter frame with a storage chamber for storing unused pleats of a corrugated filter media. [0013]
  • Yet, another object is to provide a filter frame that includes a pivotal saw tooth rack for supporting a corrugated filter media. [0014]
  • A further object is to provide a filter frame with a channel that helps support a side panel of a filter media. [0015]
  • A still further object is to provide a filter core that once installed in a filter casing is substantially stationary to avoid the maintenance that is often associated with moving parts. [0016]
  • Another object is to provide a filter frame with a tie rod that helps hold a pivotal saw tooth rack in its proper position. [0017]
  • Another object is to have a living hinge couple the tie rod to filter frame. [0018]
  • These and other objects of the invention are provided by a filter assembly that includes a corrugated filter media, wherein some pleats of the media are disposed in a main airflow passageway, and other pleats are folded more compactly and stored further away from the main flow of air.[0019]
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a filter core (according to one embodiment of the invention) being inserted into a filter casing. [0020]
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the filter core shown in FIG. 1. [0021]
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line [0022] 3-3 of FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a filter frame used in the filter core of FIG. 2. [0023]
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a filter media and a filter frame being assembled into the filter core of FIG. 2. [0024]
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 3, but with the filter media omitted to more clearly show features of the filter frame.[0025]
  • DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
  • Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a [0026] filter core 10 comprises a plastic frame 12 containing an air permeable filter media 14. Core 10 is adapted to be removably inserted in a filter casing 16, which is installed inside an air duct 18 or some other piece of HVAC equipment, such as a furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, air handler, etc. When placed inside casing 16, core 10 lies across the main air passage in duct 18. As air 20 travels through duct 18 and core 10, media 14 filters dust and other particles from the air.
  • Referring to FIG. 3, a cross-sectional view of [0027] core 10 shows media 14 being corrugated to create a first plurality of pleats 22 and an adjoining second plurality of pleats 24. The term, “pleat” refers to a section of sheet material having a crease, fold or bend. For example, section 26 is one pleat, and section 28 is another pleat. Pleats 22 are loosely folded to provide an open broad area of media for filtering air 20. For this particular size of filter core, pleats 24 are surplus and are not needed for filtering air, so pleats 24 are compactly folded and stored off to one side of frame 12.
  • The [0028] extra pleats 24 provide the option of expanding media 14 to fill wider frames (i.e., wider as measured along dimension 30). This expandability feature allows a manufacturer or parts dealer to keep a relatively small assortment of filter media, and yet still be able to fill the needs of customers having a wide variety of filter frame sizes. When separated from its frame, media 14 can be tightly folded to create a rather compact item that can be readily stored or shipped.
  • Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, [0029] frame 12 includes features that not only allow the replacement of media 14, but also facilitate manufacturing frame 12 as a unitary plastic injection molded part. Frame 12 includes a first pair of frame members 32 and 34 and a second pair of frame members 36 and 38. The four frame members lie in a generally rectangular configuration.
  • [0030] Frame members 32 and 34 include channels 40 and 42, which are able to receive two side panels 44 and 48 of media 14, thereby helping to hold media 14 in place. In some embodiments of the invention, side panels 44 and 48 are made of cardboard and are preferably more rigid than the air permeable portion of media 14.
  • To secure the ends of [0031] media 14, frame 12 includes two end plates 50 and 52 that can flip upright, as indicated by arrows 54 and 56 of FIG. 5. End plates 50 and 52 each pivot about one or a linear series of living hinges 58 that integrally join end plates 50 and 52 to frame 12. The term, “living hinge,” refers to a flexible member that is an integral extension of two pivotal pieces, whereby the flexible member and the two pivotal pieces comprise a unitary piece. Living hinges are commonly produced by a plastic injection molded process where the hinge and the two pivotal pieces come from the same mold.
  • To hold [0032] end plates 50 and 52 in their upright positions, each end plate 50 and 52 includes two latches 60 with protrusions 62 that hook into holes 68 in side panels 44 and 48. Protrusions 62 extend from tabs 64 that are pivotally joined to end plates 50 and 52 by way of a living hinge 66. As tabs 64 pivot to insert protrusions 62 into holes 68, protrusions 62 also extend into holes 70 of catch members 72. Thus, side panels 44 and 48 are held in place between tabs 64 and catch members 72.
  • [0033] Frame 12 also includes one or more flip-up saw tooth racks 74, 76 and 78. The term, “saw tooth,” is used in a broad sense to encompass any shape able to help support a corrugated media and does not necessary mean a shape resembling the teeth of a saw blade. When pivoted upward from their laid down position of FIG. 4 to their upright position of FIG. 5, racks 74, 76 and 78 are able to support the corrugated portion of media 14. Living hinges 80, 82 and 84 enable the racks to pivot relative to frame 12. To help hold racks 74, 76 and 78 at their upright positions, frame 12 is provided with tie rods 86. Tie rods 86 have one end pivotally connected to frame 12 by way of a living hinge 88 and an opposite end 90 that hooks into an opening 92 in the saw tooth racks.
  • Once in their upright positions, as shown in FIG. 6, peaks [0034] 94 and 96 and valleys 98 and 100 of racks 74, 76 and 78 help define a plurality of chambers 102 and a storage chamber 104. Chambers 102 and 104 help hold pleats 22 and 24 substantially stationary, i.e., media 14 does not travel across frame 12 during normal use of filter core 10. Chambers 102 are for pleats 22 and storage chamber 104 is for pleats 24, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6. It should be noted that actually any of chambers 102 could serve as a storage chamber for storing excess pleats 24; however, pleats 24 are preferably stored where they provide minimal resistance to airflow.
  • Folding [0035] media 14 and attaching side panels 44 and 48 can be carried out in any conventional manner well known to those skilled in the art. Also, the plastic injection molding of frame 12 in its configuration shown in FIG. 4 is also a process well known to those skilled in the art.
  • To assemble [0036] filter core 10, first, racks 74, 76 and 78 and tie rods 86 are pivoted toward each other to engage tie rod ends 90 with the racks by inserting ends 90 into openings 92, as shown in FIG. 5. Next, pleats 22 and 24 of media 14 are placed into their respective chambers of the racks, and side panels 44 and 48 are inserted into channels 40 and 42, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5. End plates 50 and 52 are then pivoted adjacent to or against the ends of media 14. To hold end plates 50 and 52 in this position and to hold side panels 44 and 48 in place, protrusions 62 are inserted through holes 68 and holes 70. This completes the assembly of filter core 10, as shown in FIG. 2. Core 10 is now ready to be inserted into filter casing 16, as shown in FIG. 1.
  • Although the invention is described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other variations are well within the scope of the invention. Therefore, the scope of the invention is to be determined by reference to the claims, which follow.[0037]

Claims (35)

I claim:
1. A filter assembly, comprising:
a core at least partially defining a plurality of chambers and a storage chamber, wherein the plurality of chambers are adjacent the storage chamber; and
a filter media having a first plurality of pleats and a second plurality of pleats, wherein the first plurality of pleats adjoin the second plurality of pleats, the first plurality of pleats are distributed over the plurality of chambers, and the second plurality of pleats are more compactly stored in the storage chamber.
2. The filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the core includes a saw tooth rack having a plurality of peaks and valleys, which define the plurality of chambers.
3. The filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the core includes a generally rectangular frame comprising a first pair of frame members that are substantially parallel to each other and a second pair of frame members that are substantially perpendicular to the first pair of frame members, wherein the saw tooth rack is pivotally coupled to the frame.
4. The filter assembly of claim 3, further comprising a living hinge that couples the saw tooth rack to frame.
5. The filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the core includes a generally rectangular frame comprising a first pair of frame members that are substantially parallel to each other and a second pair of frame members that are substantially perpendicular to the first pair of frame members, wherein a first end plate is pivotally connected to one frame member of the first pair of frame members and a second end plate is pivotally connected to another frame member of the first pair of frame members.
6. The filter assembly of claim 5, further comprising a living hinge that pivotally couples the first end plate and the second end plate to the generally rectangular frame, whereby the first end plate, the second end plate, and the frame comprise a unitary piece.
7. The filter assembly of claim 5, further comprising a side panel attached to the filter media and being adjacent the second pair of frame members, wherein the side panel defines a hole adapted to receive a protrusion extending from the first end plate.
8. The filter assembly of claim 7, wherein the protrusion is pivotal relative to the first end plate.
9. The filter assembly of claim 3, further comprising a side panel attached to the filter media, wherein the second pair of frame members defines a channel into which the side panel of the filter media is disposed.
10. The filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of pleats and the second plurality of pleats are held substantially stationary.
11. The filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of pleats are substantially equally distributed over the plurality of chambers.
12. The filter assembly of claim 4, further comprising a tie rod connected to the frame and being selectively engaged and disengaged from the saw tooth rack.
13. The filter assembly of claim 12, wherein the tie rod is pivotally relative to the frame.
14. The filter assembly of claim 13, further comprising a second living hinge that connects the tie rod to the frame.
15. A filter assembly, comprising:
a core that includes a generally rectangular frame that defines an airflow opening therethrough, the core further includes a saw tooth rack having a plurality of peaks and valleys which at least partially define a plurality of chambers and a storage chamber, wherein the storage chamber is adjacent the plurality of chambers; and
a filter media having a first plurality of pleats and a second plurality of pleats, wherein the first plurality of pleats adjoin the second plurality of pleats, the first plurality of pleats extend across the airflow opening and are distributed over the plurality of chambers, and the second plurality of pleats are stored in the storage chamber adjacent the airflow opening.
16. The filter assembly of claim 15, wherein the saw tooth rack is pivotally coupled to the frame.
17. The filter assembly of claim 16, further comprising a living hinge that couples the saw tooth rack to frame.
18. The filter assembly of claim 15, wherein the generally rectangular frame comprises a first pair of frame members that are substantially parallel to each other and a second pair of frame members that are substantially perpendicular to the first pair of frame members, wherein a first end plate is pivotally connected to one frame member of the first pair of frame members and a second end plate is pivotally connected to another frame member of the first pair of frame members.
19. The filter assembly of claim 18, wherein the generally rectangular frame, the first end plate, and the second end plate are integrally joined to comprise a unitary piece.
20. The filter assembly of claim 18, further comprising a side panel attached to the filter media and being adjacent the second pair of frame members, wherein the side panel defines a hole adapted to receive a protrusion extending from the first end plate.
21. The filter assembly of claim 20, wherein the protrusion is pivotal relative to the first end plate.
22. The filter assembly of claim 18, further comprising a side panel attached to the filter media, wherein the second pair of frame members defines a channel into which the side panel of the filter media is disposed.
23. The filter assembly of claim 15, wherein the saw tooth rack is one of a plurality of saw tooth racks.
24. The filter assembly of claim 15, wherein the first plurality of pleats and the second plurality of pleats are held substantially stationary.
25. The filter assembly of claim 16, further comprising a tie rod connected to the frame and being selectively engaged and disengaged from the saw tooth rack.
26. The filter assembly of claim 25, wherein the tie rod is pivotally relative to the frame.
27. The filter assembly of claim 26, further comprising a second living hinge that connects the tie rod to the frame.
28. A method of inserting a filter media into a core having a plurality of chambers and a storage chamber, the method comprising:
folding the filter media to create a first plurality of pleats and a second plurality of pleats;
inserting the first plurality of pleats in the plurality of chambers; and
inserting the second plurality of pleats in the storage chamber, wherein the second plurality of pleats are more tightly folded than the first plurality of pleats.
29. The method of claim 28, wherein the core includes a generally rectangular frame to which an end plate is pivotally attached, and further comprising pivoting the end plate into engagement with the filter media.
30. The method of claim 29, wherein a latch is pivotally joined to the end plate, and further comprising pivoting the latch into engagement with the filter media.
31. The method of claim 28, wherein the filter media comprises a pleated air permeable material joined to a side panel, wherein the side panel is more rigid than the pleated air permeable material.
32. The method of claim 31, further comprising inserting the side panel into a channel defined by the core.
33. The method of claim 28, wherein the core includes a saw tooth rack that helps define the plurality of chambers.
34. The method of claim 29, wherein the core includes a saw tooth rack that helps define the plurality of chambers, and further comprising pivoting the saw tooth rack relative to the frame.
35. The method of claim 28, further comprising holding the first plurality of pleats and the second plurality of pleats substantially stationary.
US10/090,058 2002-02-28 2002-02-28 Air filter with expandable filter media Expired - Fee Related US6723150B2 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/090,058 US6723150B2 (en) 2002-02-28 2002-02-28 Air filter with expandable filter media

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/090,058 US6723150B2 (en) 2002-02-28 2002-02-28 Air filter with expandable filter media

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20030159415A1 true US20030159415A1 (en) 2003-08-28
US6723150B2 US6723150B2 (en) 2004-04-20

Family

ID=27753968

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/090,058 Expired - Fee Related US6723150B2 (en) 2002-02-28 2002-02-28 Air filter with expandable filter media

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (1) US6723150B2 (en)

Cited By (21)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20040003581A1 (en) * 2002-07-06 2004-01-08 Lim Chang-Su Fresh air ducts including downstream filters for clean rooms
WO2004078304A2 (en) * 2003-03-04 2004-09-16 3M Innovative Properties Company Filter assembly
WO2006037440A1 (en) * 2004-10-01 2006-04-13 Carl Freudenberg Kg Pleated filter insert having a thermoplastic frame injection-molded onto it
US20070144128A1 (en) * 2005-12-22 2007-06-28 Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, Inc. Filter for absorbing odoriferous matter from ambient air
US20110173938A1 (en) * 2008-06-20 2011-07-21 Hans Waibel Multi-layered filter web
US8157881B1 (en) * 2007-12-31 2012-04-17 Research Products Corporation Collapsible extended surface filter and air cleaner system using collapsible extended surface filter
CN102418630A (en) * 2011-12-15 2012-04-18 江门市大长江集团有限公司 Air filter
GB2491242A (en) * 2011-05-23 2012-11-28 Gen Electric Replaceable filter media and holding mechanism
US8999029B1 (en) * 2012-11-02 2015-04-07 Steve Brandt Furnace filter box and method of assembly
JP2016098774A (en) * 2014-11-25 2016-05-30 トヨタ紡織株式会社 Air cleaner
JP2017006866A (en) * 2015-06-24 2017-01-12 キヤノン株式会社 Filter frame and filter assembly
WO2017053177A1 (en) * 2015-09-24 2017-03-30 3M Innovative Properties Company Air filter devices with gap sealing unit
US9630136B2 (en) * 2013-09-11 2017-04-25 Mahle International Gmbh Air filter
US10213721B2 (en) * 2016-04-28 2019-02-26 Cory Elliott Air filter arrangement
CN111332094A (en) * 2019-12-27 2020-06-26 黄山杰尔马热交换系统有限公司 Anti-blocking warm air water tank
WO2022053276A1 (en) * 2020-09-09 2022-03-17 Mann+Hummel Gmbh Filter element, interior air filter and production method
CN114401779A (en) * 2019-09-16 2022-04-26 3M创新有限公司 Folding filter frame
WO2023062199A1 (en) * 2021-10-14 2023-04-20 Kara Juergen Filter stage
USD992714S1 (en) * 2020-01-31 2023-07-18 2166382 Ontario Inc. Filter media retainer housing
US11975275B2 (en) * 2017-10-06 2024-05-07 Candu Energy Inc. Method and apparatus for filtering fluid in nuclear power generation
US12102950B1 (en) * 2024-05-22 2024-10-01 Wifeb Trading Co., Limited Foldable filter housing for air conditioning

Families Citing this family (34)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7364602B2 (en) * 2004-03-16 2008-04-29 Whirlpool Corporation Air cleaner assembly
US7993434B2 (en) * 2004-04-06 2011-08-09 Oscar Moreno A Disposable air filter assembly
US7524362B2 (en) * 2005-03-08 2009-04-28 Whirlpool Corporation Modular filter assembly
US7582131B2 (en) * 2005-09-15 2009-09-01 Conwed Plastics Llc Plastic support net for filter media
WO2007035604A2 (en) * 2005-09-16 2007-03-29 Becton, Dickinson And Company Scaffold carrier cartridge
US9789494B2 (en) 2005-12-29 2017-10-17 Environmental Management Confederation, Inc. Active field polarized media air cleaner
US8252097B2 (en) * 2005-12-29 2012-08-28 Environmental Management Confederation, Inc. Distributed air cleaner system for enclosed electronic devices
US8814994B2 (en) 2005-12-29 2014-08-26 Environmental Management Confederation, Inc. Active field polarized media air cleaner
KR20120123150A (en) * 2005-12-29 2012-11-07 인바이런멘탈 메니지먼트 컨피더레이션, 인크. Improved filter media for active field polarized media air cleaner
US8795601B2 (en) 2005-12-29 2014-08-05 Environmental Management Confederation, Inc. Filter media for active field polarized media air cleaner
US7691186B2 (en) * 2005-12-29 2010-04-06 Environmental Management Confederation, Inc. Conductive bead active field polarized media air cleaner
US7686869B2 (en) * 2005-12-29 2010-03-30 Environmental Management Confederation, Inc. Active field polarized media air cleaner
US7708813B2 (en) * 2005-12-29 2010-05-04 Environmental Management Confederation, Inc. Filter media for active field polarized media air cleaner
US7588618B2 (en) * 2006-01-20 2009-09-15 Aaf-Mcquay Inc. Filter cassette rack
US20080066436A1 (en) * 2006-09-14 2008-03-20 Delta M Incorporated Air filter apparatus
US20080105123A1 (en) * 2006-11-02 2008-05-08 General Electric Company Gas turbine air filter
DE102007006103B4 (en) * 2007-02-02 2012-06-06 Carl Freudenberg Kg Frame and cassette filter
US8182571B2 (en) * 2007-12-11 2012-05-22 Lennox Industries Inc. Frame for receiving a filter element and method for providing
US8915986B2 (en) 2008-04-08 2014-12-23 Universal Technologies, Inc. Air filter
US8192533B2 (en) * 2009-06-16 2012-06-05 G.T.E. Industries, Inc. Support system for exhaust emission control elements
US8828111B2 (en) 2011-03-07 2014-09-09 Field Controls, Llc Collapsible filter
USD667943S1 (en) * 2011-03-22 2012-09-25 Cotor S.R.L. Air treatment apparatus
US20130097981A1 (en) * 2011-10-21 2013-04-25 Doug G. Harris Removable radiator bracket filter systems
US11585545B2 (en) * 2011-11-07 2023-02-21 Snowventco Limited Ridge vent
US20130133301A1 (en) * 2011-11-28 2013-05-30 General Filters, Inc. Modular air filter
US9114342B2 (en) 2012-12-05 2015-08-25 Rps Products, Inc. Filter with covered edges
US9682339B2 (en) 2015-01-23 2017-06-20 Rps Products, Inc. Collapsible filter with support structure
MX2017013124A (en) 2015-04-14 2018-01-26 Environmental Man Confederation Inc Corrugated filtration media for polarizing air cleaner.
US10596501B2 (en) 2016-06-03 2020-03-24 Airthreds Llc Reusable air filter device
WO2018102908A1 (en) * 2016-12-05 2018-06-14 Antoine Bourque Ridge vent
US10286351B2 (en) 2017-04-19 2019-05-14 Rps Products, Inc. Filter with flexible side seal
US11745132B2 (en) 2019-11-20 2023-09-05 PaintMaxx LLC Filter and filter assembly for paint overspray capture
WO2024105488A1 (en) * 2022-11-18 2024-05-23 3M Innovative Properties Company Framed air filters, frames for air filters, and kits for framed air filters
EP4431171A1 (en) * 2023-03-14 2024-09-18 MANN+HUMMEL GmbH Ambient air filter device and use of a filter element in an ambient air filter device

Family Cites Families (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1982639A (en) 1933-06-14 1934-12-04 Universal Air Filter Corp Air filter
US2393419A (en) 1944-07-24 1946-01-22 Air Maze Corp Frame for filters
US2739667A (en) 1954-08-02 1956-03-27 American Air Filter Co Filter frame
US3246456A (en) 1963-04-29 1966-04-19 Farr Co Air filter assembly with removable filter elements
US3630008A (en) 1969-10-23 1971-12-28 American Air Filter Co Filter cell sealing and retaining arrangement
US4885015A (en) * 1988-10-03 1989-12-05 Cambridge Filter Corporation HEPA air filter for high temperature environments and method of fabrication
US5273564A (en) * 1992-12-24 1993-12-28 Research Products Corporation One piece filter media framework
US5531892A (en) * 1995-09-15 1996-07-02 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Zigzag filter media and frame having triangular pleat stabilizing elements
US5665145A (en) 1995-10-26 1997-09-09 American Standard Inc. Air filter channel and puller
US6066194A (en) 1998-04-17 2000-05-23 American Standard Inc. Electronic room air cleaner with variable speed motor
US6485538B1 (en) * 1999-03-31 2002-11-26 Yugen Caisha Infinity Kenkyusho Air-conditioning air filter
DE10013301B4 (en) * 2000-03-17 2007-04-05 Carl Freudenberg Kg filter cartridge
US6319300B1 (en) * 2000-07-12 2001-11-20 Liou-Win Chen Filter assembly of an air filter

Cited By (32)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6849100B2 (en) * 2002-07-06 2005-02-01 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Fresh air ducts including downstream filters for clean rooms
US20050115213A1 (en) * 2002-07-06 2005-06-02 Lim Chang-Su Fresh air ducts including downstream filters for clean rooms
US20040003581A1 (en) * 2002-07-06 2004-01-08 Lim Chang-Su Fresh air ducts including downstream filters for clean rooms
WO2004078304A2 (en) * 2003-03-04 2004-09-16 3M Innovative Properties Company Filter assembly
WO2004078304A3 (en) * 2003-03-04 2004-12-16 3M Innovative Properties Co Filter assembly
WO2006037440A1 (en) * 2004-10-01 2006-04-13 Carl Freudenberg Kg Pleated filter insert having a thermoplastic frame injection-molded onto it
US20070144128A1 (en) * 2005-12-22 2007-06-28 Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, Inc. Filter for absorbing odoriferous matter from ambient air
US7704303B2 (en) 2005-12-22 2010-04-27 Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc. Filter for absorbing odoriferous matter from ambient air
US8414674B2 (en) 2007-12-31 2013-04-09 Research Products Corporation Collapsible extended surface filter and air cleaner system using collapsible extended surface filter
US8157881B1 (en) * 2007-12-31 2012-04-17 Research Products Corporation Collapsible extended surface filter and air cleaner system using collapsible extended surface filter
US8945267B2 (en) 2007-12-31 2015-02-03 Research Products Corporation Collapsible extended surface filter and air cleaner system using collapsible extended surface filter
US8623109B2 (en) 2007-12-31 2014-01-07 Research Products Corporation Collapsible extended surface filter and air cleaner system using collapsible extended surface filter
US20110173938A1 (en) * 2008-06-20 2011-07-21 Hans Waibel Multi-layered filter web
US8814972B2 (en) * 2008-06-20 2014-08-26 Mahle International Gmbh Multi-layered filter web
GB2491242A (en) * 2011-05-23 2012-11-28 Gen Electric Replaceable filter media and holding mechanism
US8720028B2 (en) 2011-05-23 2014-05-13 Bha Altair, Llc Replaceable filter media and holding mechanism
CN102418630A (en) * 2011-12-15 2012-04-18 江门市大长江集团有限公司 Air filter
US8999029B1 (en) * 2012-11-02 2015-04-07 Steve Brandt Furnace filter box and method of assembly
US9630136B2 (en) * 2013-09-11 2017-04-25 Mahle International Gmbh Air filter
JP2016098774A (en) * 2014-11-25 2016-05-30 トヨタ紡織株式会社 Air cleaner
JP2017006866A (en) * 2015-06-24 2017-01-12 キヤノン株式会社 Filter frame and filter assembly
TWI714635B (en) * 2015-09-24 2021-01-01 美商3M新設資產公司 Air filter devices and method of installing an air filter to an air handing device
WO2017053177A1 (en) * 2015-09-24 2017-03-30 3M Innovative Properties Company Air filter devices with gap sealing unit
US10940416B2 (en) 2015-09-24 2021-03-09 3M Innovative Properties Company Air filter devices with gap sealing unit
US10213721B2 (en) * 2016-04-28 2019-02-26 Cory Elliott Air filter arrangement
US11975275B2 (en) * 2017-10-06 2024-05-07 Candu Energy Inc. Method and apparatus for filtering fluid in nuclear power generation
CN114401779A (en) * 2019-09-16 2022-04-26 3M创新有限公司 Folding filter frame
CN111332094A (en) * 2019-12-27 2020-06-26 黄山杰尔马热交换系统有限公司 Anti-blocking warm air water tank
USD992714S1 (en) * 2020-01-31 2023-07-18 2166382 Ontario Inc. Filter media retainer housing
WO2022053276A1 (en) * 2020-09-09 2022-03-17 Mann+Hummel Gmbh Filter element, interior air filter and production method
WO2023062199A1 (en) * 2021-10-14 2023-04-20 Kara Juergen Filter stage
US12102950B1 (en) * 2024-05-22 2024-10-01 Wifeb Trading Co., Limited Foldable filter housing for air conditioning

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US6723150B2 (en) 2004-04-20

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6723150B2 (en) Air filter with expandable filter media
US6814773B2 (en) Expandable media filter assembly
US5944860A (en) Air plenum filter adapter component
US5989303A (en) Fan-fold filter for a forced air ventilation system
US5984776A (en) Register assembly for covering an air duct opening
US8623109B2 (en) Collapsible extended surface filter and air cleaner system using collapsible extended surface filter
US6592643B2 (en) Method and apparatus for assembling an expandable media filter
US6599343B2 (en) Method and apparatus for assembling an expandable and disposable media filter
US5743927A (en) Air filter element; assembly; and, method
WO2007103672A1 (en) Collapsible auto expanding media filter
US20040172928A1 (en) Filter assembly
US20130133301A1 (en) Modular air filter
US6638333B2 (en) Method and apparatus for assembling an expandable media filter with spacing ribbons
US20060236856A1 (en) Disposable filter for a fluid handling device and a method for using the same
US20080066436A1 (en) Air filter apparatus
KR102658322B1 (en) Air Blowing System Capable Of Air Cleaning
EP0769664B1 (en) Filter casing
US20040074214A1 (en) Filter housing
US6878057B1 (en) System for filtering and scenting of the air of individual rooms of a building
JPH1176729A (en) Indoor air treating filter member
KR20180002978U (en) Small-sized type air cleaner
JPH11351657A (en) Air conditioner
CA2430699C (en) Expandable and disposable media filter
JPH1019367A (en) Filter for air conditioner
US20220040619A1 (en) Pocket filter assembly and method for installation

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: AMERICAN STANDARD INTERNATIONAL INC., NEW YORK

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:PARKER, NATHAN P.;REEL/FRAME:012673/0660

Effective date: 20020128

CC Certificate of correction
FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

REMI Maintenance fee reminder mailed
AS Assignment

Owner name: TRANE INTERNATIONAL INC., NEW YORK

Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:AMERICAN STANDARD INTERNATIONAL INC.;REEL/FRAME:020733/0970

Effective date: 20071128

Owner name: TRANE INTERNATIONAL INC.,NEW YORK

Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:AMERICAN STANDARD INTERNATIONAL INC.;REEL/FRAME:020733/0970

Effective date: 20071128

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 8

REMI Maintenance fee reminder mailed
LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362

FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 20160420